2 Kings 2:3

Sons of the prophets. Only a few years before, Elijah had believed he was the only one left in Israel who remained true to God, but he had been given the divine assurance that the Lord had no less than 7,000 in Israel who had not bowed to Baal (1 Kings 19:18). Many of these faithful children of God had united with the schools of the prophets, that they might prepare for a part in the same service of reform to which Elijah and Elisha had been called. These schools had fallen into decay during the apostasy of Israel, but had been reestablished by Elijah (PK 224). Throughout the nation Elijah now found evidences of faith and courage in the Lord, and his heart was cheered at the strong work he saw being carried on in the schools.

Knowest thou? The fact that Elijah was to be translated that day had been revealed not only to the prophet himself but also to Elisha and the sons of the prophets (see on v. 1). When a revelation is given to one individual by God, it is no indication that that same revelation has not also been given to someone else.

From thy head. It was generally recognized that Elijah held the leading position in the Lord’s work of reform then being carried on in Israel. The disciples in the schools of the prophets recognized this fact, and so did Elisha. God carries on His work on earth through leaders who are chosen by Him. The true people of God recognize these leaders as men of divine appointment and follow their leadership, without envy or criticism.

Hold ye your peace. Heb. hecheshu. This word imitates the sound and thus strikingly conveys the meaning, like our English word, “hush!”